The Cyprus Community of New South Wales’ Greek School stands apart as a beacon of Greek and Cypriot cultural heritage in the state. Nurtured by the Cyprus Community, the school highlights and encapsulates Cypriot culture and traditions, offering an unparalleled educational experience that immerses students in the beauty of the mother tongue language.
A new term of opportunities
With the start of Term 3, staff and students have reflected on the exciting activities and achievements that have defined the school year so far.
This year’s theme centres on ancient theatre, with students showcasing their understanding through creative posters and presentations. The highlight of the year will be an end-of-year performance of Aristophanes’ comedy Frogs, a testament to students’ dedication and creativity.
Upcoming activities
Term 3 at the Greek School is packed with enriching activities, including:
- Cooking classes: Students will learn the art of baking bread.
- Father’s Day interviews: Celebrating the important men in students’ lives.
- In-school exams: Mandatory exams to assess students’ comprehension and production of oral and written Greek.
- School excursion: A day of activities and games related to the Olympic Games.
Enhancing learning with a new Academy
The Cyprus Community has announced the creation of a Kids Academy, supported by a grant from the Federal Language School Grant Scheme. Tailored to pre-schoolers, primary school children, and teenagers, this academy will offer fun, hands-on activities such as cooking, alongside Greek language learning.
The Greek School has been conducting cooking classes since 2019, and the kids always look forward to these days. The school aims to operate this program both during holidays and on a weekly basis, fostering a love for Cypriot and Greek culture and cuisine among young learners.
“Our new Kids Academy is a testament to our commitment to providing a dynamic and engaging learning environment for our students,” Greek School Principal Olympia Palamas said.
“We believe that hands-on activities, combined with language learning, will foster a deeper connection to our culture.”
Celebrating academic excellence and building connections
- Celebrating academic excellence
Excellence is not just a goal, but a tradition at the Greek School. Since 2018, students have consistently showcased their linguistic talents, earning prestigious accolades such as the Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Student Achievement within Community Languages Schools. Their achievements are a testament to their hard work and dedication, as well as the unwavering support of both their own families and the wider school family.
This year, the Greek School proudly recognised the efforts of six students whose dedication to learning Greek brought honour to the school.
The creativity of students at the Greek School knows no bounds. They have built a captivating library of electronic books, “Ιστοριο-Παραμυθοδρομίες,” filled with enchanting fairy tales and thrilling adventures, transporting readers to a magical world of their own making. During the pandemic, they also produced a delightful series of short comedy videos titled “Laughter is Life,” spreading joy and emphasising the vital role of humour in people’s lives.
- Recognising achievements and building connections
2024 marked a significant start in the year for the Greek School, with students delivering a colourful performance at the Sydney Town Hall during the Community Language School Spectacular on June 2. Dressed in vibrant shirts and holding handmade paper boats, they brought the song “Aspra, kokkina, kitrina, mple” to life. This performance was more than just entertainment; it was a celebration of Cyprus’ rich heritage and a demonstration of the Greek School’s commitment to preserving language, traditions, and customs.
The Greek School is not only recognised for its academic achievements, but also for its unique and engaging teaching style. The school proudly participates in a variety of community events, such as the Food and Wine Festival, and commemorate significant historical events like the 1974 invasion of Northern Cyprus. These activities provide students with a deeper understanding of Hellenism and Cypriot culture, which has been a cornerstone of the Hellenic world for over 3000 years. It is the school’s mission to ensure this vibrant culture is not lost but cherished and passed on to future generations.
Through the school’s innovative programs and active community involvement, it is cultivating a sense of pride and appreciation for cultural heritage in students. Teachers are not only teaching a language; they are nurturing a lifelong connection to a rich and storied heritage, ensuring it thrives for many years to come.
- A commitment to cultural heritage
Choosing a Greek school for your children is a significant decision, and teachers strive to provide an enriching experience that stands out. The Cyprus Community Greek School’s primary aim is to instill a deep understanding of Greek and Cypriot cultural practices, language, and heritage in students. The school wants students to be proud of their background and identity, fostering a sense of community that will last for years to come.
At the school, teachers demonstrate empathy and respect for cultural differences while finding common ground and fostering connections between different communities. The school exemplifies how language can expand a child’s horizons, provide perspective, and promote acceptance of different cultures and people, thereby contributing to the multicultural, diverse society of Australia.
“With passion, meraki, enthusiasm, kefi, love, integrity and filotimo, we educate our young students, instilling in them these cultural values and many more,” Principal Ms Palamas said.
“The word ‘philoxenia’ for example, literally translated as a “friend to a stranger,” is widely perceived to be synonymous to hospitality. However, it is much deeper than that. It is an unspoken cultural law that expresses generosity and courtesy to strangers. While learning Greek as a second language can be challenging, at our school, we make it a fun and enjoyable journey.”
Looking ahead
In 2025, the Greek School plans to continue the cross-national classes, allowing students to connect with peers in Cyprus and Greece, participating in joint lessons and activities. This initiative aims to broaden their understanding and appreciation of Greek culture beyond traditional borders.
Join in on a learning journey
The Greek School is inviting all students, regardless of background, to join them in their Greek Learning Studies. The school’s commitment to developing bilingual skills and bicultural identity is at the heart of its educational philosophy. Teachers believe that engaging, meaningful, and culturally embedded experiences are key to effective language learning.
By providing opportunities to use Greek in various activities, offering comprehensible and relevant language exposure, and giving ongoing feedback, teachers ensure that students receive a dynamic and enriching education.
If you want to learn more about the Greek School, please visit the Cyprus Community Club at Stanmore on any Saturday from 10am to 4pm. For more information contact Olympia at greekschool@thecyprusclub.org.au or 0451 659 388.
